BJP leader Chhatrapal Singh Gangwar drew sharp criticism after proclaiming 'Jai Hindu Rashtra, Jai Bharat' during his oath-taking ceremony in the Lok Sabha. The opposition leaders raised objections, terming it "against the Constitution." Earlier, the second day of the Parliament session also saw pro-Palestine slogans raised by AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi, which further stirred controversy. Meanwhile, members of the opposition INDIA bloc including Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Kanimozhi, took oaths on Tuesday with a copy of the Constitution in their hands, ending it with 'Jai Hind, Jai Samvidhan' slogans.
Background
The term "Hindu Rashtra" refers to the concept of a nation-state that is primarily defined by its Hindu identity. This ideology has been espoused by Hindu nationalist organizations, including the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Recent Controversy
On June 29, 2021, during the oath-taking ceremony in the Lok Sabha (India's lower house of Parliament), BJP leader Chhatrapal Singh Gangwar uttered the slogan "Jai Hindu Rashtra, Jai Bharat" (Victory to Hindu Nation, Victory to India). This declaration sparked immediate outrage among opposition leaders, who condemned it as "against the Constitution."
The Constitution of India defines the country as a secular republic, where all religions are treated equally. Many argued that Gangwar's slogan violated this principle and could promote sectarianism.
Opposition's Response
Members of the opposition bloc INDIA, including Rahul Gandhi, Akhilesh Yadav, and Kanimozhi, took their oaths with copies of the Constitution in hand. They ended their speeches with the slogans "Jai Hind, Jai Samvidhan" (Victory to India, Victory to the Constitution), highlighting their commitment to India's secular and constitutional identity.
Implications
The controversy surrounding Gangwar's slogan has raised concerns about the increasing influence of Hindu nationalist ideology within the Indian government. Critics argue that such rhetoric could lead to the erosion of religious freedom and the creation of a divided society.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What is the meaning of "Jai Hindu Rashtra"?
A: Jai Hindu Rashtra means "Victory to Hindu Nation." It is a slogan used by Hindu nationalist organizations to promote the idea of a Hindu-dominated nation-state.
2. Is India a Hindu Rashtra?
A: No, India is not a Hindu Rashtra. The Indian Constitution defines the country as a secular republic, where all religions are treated equally.
3. Who raised objections to the Jai Hindu Rashtra slogan?
A: Opposition leaders, including Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, objected to the slogan, terming it "against the Constitution." They argued that it violated India's secular principles.
4. What is the significance of the opposition leaders taking oaths with the Constitution?
A: By taking oaths with the Constitution in hand, the opposition leaders emphasized their commitment to India's secular and constitutional identity. They rejected the idea of a Hindu Rashtra and vowed to uphold the principles of religious freedom and equality.
5. What are the potential implications of the controversy surrounding the Jai Hindu Rashtra slogan?
A: The controversy has raised concerns about the increasing influence of Hindu nationalist ideology within the Indian government. Critics warn that such rhetoric could lead to the erosion of religious freedom and the creation of a divided society.
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